Sunny in London

A Florida girl's guide to finding SUN and FUN

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What To Do When It’s Not Sunny in London

Unfortunately this September and October London has had quite a bit of rain. The amount of sunny days in London have certainly been less than we would prefer. This can make it difficult to enjoy the city’s fantastic outdoor attractions. However, it also gives a great opportunity to think about all the great places to see in London and experiences to have indoors too. Whether you’re into culture or you prefer to do something chilled with your weekends, London still has a huge array of things to do when it rains. 

So where should you go the next time it’s not-so-sunny in London? Take a look at the following suggestions for things to do in London on a cloudy or rainy day.

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Head for Brunch

Brunch is a fun and really popular activity across the UK these days. It is also the perfect excuse to spend a few hours catching up with friends (whether bottomless or not!). When you’re in a city like London that’s quickly growing its foodie scene, you’re spoiled for choice with incredible brunch spots. Many of them also include some of the best views of London. Book a table and escape the rain to enjoy a leisurely morning in the city.

Of course if brunch is too early and boozy for you, there’s always the old faithful afternoon tea to use indulging for hours indoors.

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Discover a Bit of History

London is a city full of history, and sometimes it’s easy to forget about it with so much modernity around. Many people who live in London have never visited its best tourist spots, including the London Eye and Westminster Abbey. It might be raining outside, but there’s no reason you can’t discover a bit of history when you have the day to explore. 

Want to learn more about the history of London? Take a look at some of London’s most historic sites to help you plan where to go.

Get Cultured through Art

A morning or afternoon spent wandering around an art gallery can be a fantastic way to enjoy an afternoon or culture. London is home to some of the world’s best art galleries, including both contemporary art and art through the ages. Art galleries can get very busy at the weekend so if you can book tickets in advance, you should, or make sure you get there bright and early to beat the queues as they say.

Go Shopping!

One of the things London is most famous for is its shopping. There are a whole load of incredible stores to check out, ranging from one of boutiques and markets to well-known department stores like Harrods and Liberty. It’s easy to spend a whole day shopping in London, taking in the atmosphere and seeing what all the fuss is about! In the winter months, you’ll be able to take in the beautiful displays along Oxford Street, Regent Street and Carnaby Street. Plus, you will be able to see all of the Christmas lights. 

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Explore Food in London

London really is a fantastic city, with plenty of seasonal events and new openings that make it easy to find something exciting to do every weekend. If you subscribe to the Sunny News email, you will always have a fab list of upcoming ideas from which to choose. That way, come rain or shine, you’ll always have something to do in London.

And, of course, there are tons of foodie things to do in London too.

This is a collaborative post on Sunny in London.

The Best Things to Buy in London

Have you spent months planning a trip to London? In all of your research on things to do and places to eat, you might not have thought about the best things to buy in London yet.

Finding a souvenir in one of the world’s most famous cities isn’t hard. Every attraction will have a gift shop, and it’s highly likely you will visit at least one during your trip to London.

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The Most Popular Things to Buy in London

In any big city you can find T-shirts, keychains, refrigerator magnets, snow globes and postcards. In London, popular iconic souvenirs include Big Ben figurines, small red busses, metal telephone boxes filled with bad tea bags, something from Harrods and umbrellas. In Central London, you will find countless trinkets displaying a Union Jack.

But, why not aim for something with a more local feel? In fact, why not bring home souvenirs from London that actual Londoners would typically buy or enjoy? Or souvenirs that are created by local artists?

After living in London for six years as an American married to an English man, I have had time to really explore and learn what the best things to buy in London can be.

The Best Things to Buy in London- Tea

Drinking tea all the time isn’t just a British stereotype. It’s what they do. For real. All the time.

But, to be honest, most drink the very inexpensive brand PG tips on a regular basis. You could grab a box of it here or go for something a little more royal and posh like tea from Fortnum & Mason. This iconic British luxury department store currently holds royal warrants from Her Majesty the Queen and the Prince of Wales. Famous British chefs who rave about Fortnum and Mason include Nigella Lawson and Mary Berry. Charles Dickens was a fan too.

What’s great about going for Fortnum and Mason tea is that you can find many of their popular products at World Duty Free in Gatwick and Heathrow airport. Keep this in mind in case you don’t have time on a short trip to London to go to the department store. It won’t necessarily be cheaper, but you can save it for last minute and not worry about finding room for it in your checked bag.

You will want something equally as memorable to hold while you drink your luxury tea. For fun London mug souvenirs, To Home From London has tons of options. You will find mugs with cheeky British slang, iconic British musicians and popular places you will have seen.

Recently, they sent me a few samples of products to share here with you.

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Travel Mug and Coasters from To Home From London
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Tote Bag from To Home From London

Buying a bone china teacup that was made in England is an option, but I always worry about an item so delicate breaking on a long international flight.

The Best Things to Buy in London- Sports

It’s not nearly as common for British people as it is for Americans to wear gear that displays their team’s colours or logo. But, they suit up for the match. Rather than a team jersey, most will likely have a scarf to throw around their neck so they can make sure their vocal cords are nice and warm when they need to scream for their team.

The Best Things to Buy in London- Books

Depending on where you eat in London, you might be able to buy one of the chef’s cookbooks.

Obviously those won’t be useful until you get home. If you want books that will help you on your visit, Mr Sunny and I recommend two London classics. These two souvenirs represent London life decades ago when we didn’t have smartphones to show us the way everywhere.

Now, with CityMapper, Google Maps and many other apps, carrying around a paper map is not necessary. Unless you don’t have WiFi, and some of you will not when you are visiting from America unless you arrange a pre-planned package with your data provider. If you need to go old school like a proper Londoner you would use this…

And then there is one that Mr Sunny and his dad can’t live without (except Mr Sunny relies on the app now).

Best Things to Buy in London- Travel Gifts

The ultimate gift store for travel lovers in London is Stanfords in Covent Garden. Inside you can find stationary, globes, notepads and paper. Take a look here at this fun London Map Journal which would certainly charm any travel lover who likes to write and document experiences.

Best Things to Buy in London- Online Gifts

If you don’t make it to Stanfords or you just basically want some London swag to surround you, they have tons of Gifts for People Who Love London. And gifts for Travel Addicts, Gifts for Map Lovers, and more.

The ultimate Christmas gift from London you could send yourself or someone else is a Fortnum and Mason hamper. They rank really high on the Royal’s list too.

And then there is the one souvenir that you can be guaranteed no one else has- your photos.

I think the best idea to commemorate your London trip is something showing your experiences. What about creating a calendar on Shutterfly of all your best photos? This way, every day you can be reminded of something special you did while visiting London.

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Best Things to Buy in London- Final Thoughts

For shopping, there are certain British brands or clothes, shoes and handbags that I recommend in my American’s Guide to Shopping in London, so I won’t go on about them here.

However, I will quickly highlight some things to buy in London that I would skip. Tons of websites suggest that you go to the M&Ms World store in Leicester Square. That just doesn’t make sense to me. You can get the candy at any convenient store in America.

Also, Harry Potter merchandise is easily accessible on Amazon.com in the US, so I wouldn’t take up space in my suitcase for it either. But, grabbing this picture at either the Warner Bros. Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour or at St. Pancras International Station is one to put in that photo calendar I suggested.

Directions Harry Potter Studio Tour London Transportation

What memorable souvenirs have you bought in a destination? Have you ever taken a photo and had it printed to remember your trip?

The Ice Bar London Review

Literally the coolest thing to do in London is go to the ICEBAR London. Mr Sunny and I have been to this venue just off Regent Street in Mayfair twice. We still think if you’re looking for something unique for a date, out of office experience with colleagues or night out with the girls, then keep reading.

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Back in 2011 we hit ICEBAR London for a super fun few hours. That’s because we combined it with their restaurant experience. It was pre-blog days but since I had some pictures I wrote about it as one of my first food reviews on Sunny in London.

We went on a Christmas holiday evening. Mr Sunny had booked our time well in advance. It was crowded.

While I nearly always prefer to avoid crowds, this is one of the rare times I advocate for going to a location when it is busy.

On the last Monday night of September 2019 we were nearly the only ones in the ICEBAR London at 5:45pm. Yeah, it was nice not to wait in a long queue for drinks. But, have you ever been on the dance floor by yourself at a club or wedding?

Not ideal, right?

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We literally got our drinks, took our photos and returned our capes. I think we were in the actual ice bar for 15 minutes.

They offer a range of ICEBAR experiences, and you must book in advance. Basically, you get a cape and gloves to keep you warm plus your first ice cocktail on entry. You are welcome to stay inside the bar for up to
40 minutes from the start of your session.

While you might be concerned about the chilling temperatures and your ability to withstand them, it’s not anything that would impair your ability to have fun. In fact, during the most recent visit I had my gloves off for most of the time because I was filming video and taking pictures. Below is the 45 second highlight video I published on my Instagram of our night at Ice Bar and Fire Bar.

Included in our complimentary experience was only snacks from Fire Bar on the patio because Yuu Kitchen was closed for a private event. We were informed that Yuu Kitchen isn’t open for food on Monday nights. Hopefully, we’ll have a chance to return in the future to try the food because that was one of the highlights from our first Ice Bar experience.

I absolutely loved my White Satin, which was Absolut Raspberri vodka, lychee, orgeat and apple juice. It really was so silky smooth that the name does says it all. Literally, I would put it in my top five cocktail experiences ever. The list includes my all time favourite- which was an aloe martini I had in a Toronto bar. Second is a “Peanut Butter and Jelly” creation that a bartender made me once in Hollywood. I told him I liked Chambord and requested a cocktail that wasn’t just another French martini.

Mr Sunny told them to surprise him with their choice of a cocktail and they brought him a Strawberry Crush. He said it was pretty tasty.

Sitting on the patio was a nice experience until it started to pour rain, which caused us to end our evening a bit early.

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What you might not know if you have been to the Ice Bar London previously is that they annually change the theme of the sculptures. Currently it features Norse myth and magic that comes alive inside the frozen Hall of Odin.

Valhalla Calling is the ICE BAR’s latest ice art installation and their second collaboration with the creative team at PSD Ice Art. Yes, as huge Game of Thrones fans, Mr Sunny and I each took a chance to sit on the “ice throne”.

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The concept draws its inspiration from the myths of the Norse Gods, Odin, Loki and Thor, the monsters of Ragnarok, the final war at the end of the world, and the fabulous hall of Valhalla where Odin feasts every night with the bravest warriors who have fallen in battle.

So, Sunny friends, would you take the deep freeze plunge for cocktails literally on ice? What’s been your most unique cocktail bar experience?

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Cheap Holiday Destinations in Europe During Peak Travel Times

When it comes to finding cheap holiday destinations in Europe, Mr Sunny and I have to do quite a bit of research. Due to the nature of my fulltime job, we are forced to take our holidays during peak travel times. Rarely do we score one of those £50 roundtrip deals that are part of flash sales or last minute travel specials you see frequently.

To plan for holiday destinations in Europe or to the US, we regularly use flight and hotel comparison websites like JustFly to see what’s available at the best price during the restricted dates we can travel.

Talking to family, friends and colleagues who travel throughout Europe about where the current hot places are for less has helped us make some great decisions and narrow our searches. In fact, we think we have nearly been to or have holidays booked to all the top cheap holiday destinations in Europe.

Our Travel Profile

We like city breaks and beach destinations and have a relaxed approach to our itinerary. It’s important to us to see popular attractions and have time to enjoy the regional cuisine. Not having children means we like when there is an adult pool at a hotel. Spas always attract our attention. We’re happy to spend money on quality, but appreciate a deal like everyone else who hasn’t won the Euromillions yet.

Obviously, we prefer to stay in 5 star accommodations, just like most people would. Generally, we can find hotels that aren’t ridiculously expensive but still have a “luxury” label. Budget accommodations don’t appeal to our travel taste.

If this matches how you and your partner like to travel and you’re restricted to peak travel times, then focus your research on the cheap holiday destinations in Europe below for your next trip.

Valletta, Malta

Cheap Holiday Destinations in Europe: Malta

Two years ago we enjoyed a 5-night holiday to Malta. We would recommend this trip to people who enjoy sun, water sports and excellent food. While it’s likely much cheaper during off peak times, Malta was less money during the popular summer months of July and August in comparison to other European destinations.

Saving money on meals allowed us to book more activities. We loved our day trip to Gozo and Blue Lagoon on a boat from our hotel in Valletta, as well as the full day we spent touring Game of Thrones locations used for the first season with a cast member.

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Cheap Holiday Destinations in Europe: Bilbao, San Sebastián and Rioja

If you are foodie travellers and love wine, this roadtrip trio of Spanish cities is a must do. We spent six nights touring the Basque Country and fell in love with the beautiful scenery and cuisine. This was a summer trip for us that we made cheaper than our normal trips by staying in some 4 star hotels instead of 5 stars.

Mr Sunny and I rented a car in Bilbao and spent two nights in each city. You could easily hike up your budget by dining on the many Michelin starred options in San Sebastián. However, we made our experience more attainable by enjoying pinxtos for lunch and early evening hours.

Cheap Holiday Destinations in Europe: Prague

Having a reputation for one of the cheapest holiday destinations in Europe, Prague was high on our list. In terms of good food and beer for less money than you spend in London, Prague fulfilled our expectations. However, unlike Malta and Basque Country, Prague isn’t known for fancy food.  You will save money in Prague but you will eat goulash, braised beef and dumplings. Don’t plan on getting any food porn for your Insta in this city! Unless of course you try the Trdelnik.

Because most of our days were under our normal daily budget, we did splurge on a Michelin starred dinner at our hotel one evening. It was the most we ever spent on one dinner, and we agree it was the best food experience we have ever had together. That includes all of the complimentary blog feasts we have had too.

Our trip to Prague took place in May. The 90° Fahrenheit temperatures really crushed my ability to fall in love with this city like most people do. So, since it’s not a beach destination, I would suggest it for the Autumn.

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Cheap Holiday Destinations in Europe: Vienna

This city has a reputation for some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. We visited in February and were able to still enjoy many winter themed activities that took place over the holidays.  The temperatures at times were bone chilling, but obviously outdoor ice skating wouldn’t be possible any other way.  

Vienna tends to get quite crowded in the summer. So if you want to hit the city and not face the summer or Christmas market crowds, February could be a great option for you too.

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Cheap Holiday Destinations in Europe: Budapest

Since going to European Christmas markets is something I would love to do, we booked a holiday to Budapest this year in November. Like Prague, Budapest is reportedly one of Europe’s cheapest cities to visit. Booking our flights and hotel in May allowed us to grab a good deal.

Cheap Holiday Destinations in Europe: Lisbon

While Lisbon doesn’t generally sit on the top of the cheap European destinations leader board, we think it has potential. We have winter travel plans to Lisbon and are shocked at how cheaply we scored roundtrip flights on British Airways.

It looks like the regional food in Lisbon will be good and reasonable. Further, with its more southern location we are hoping the weather will be quite mild for winter.

Cheap Holiday Destinations in Europe: Final Thoughts

Sadly, one of my favourite places to visit was also the most expensive. In October 2018 Mr Sunny and I spent four amazing nights in Nice, France. While it easily was one of the best holidays I have ever had, a trip to the French Riviera sure isn’t cheap. Flights from London can be really reasonable. And, deals including hotels on the Promenade des Anglais aren’t too outrageous either. But, if you want to really enjoy the cuisine of the Côte d’Azur, you need to be ready to for some serious sticker shock at the dinner table!

What cities for cheap travel destinations in Europe do you recommend, Sunny friends? If you are forced to travel during peak times, what strategies do you use to save money?

This is a collaborative post.

The Best Things To Do in London

What are the best things to do in London? If you have limited time you might want to rely on a local living in town to give you the real scoop on what’s worth the time and what you can skip.

How Can I Help You Find Things to Do in London?

As an American living in London, I have a unique perspective because unlike many Londoners, I have been to almost every attraction here. Writing as a London travel blogger means I have been invited to a few of them two or three times with different tour companies!

Having an English husband whose whole family was born in London helps, because I also know what real Londoners value in the town. So, the insider tips or hidden things to do in London are easy to know too.

What Will You Find?

This is a regularly updated list of activities I have done in London and have written about on the blog or published on the Sunny News YouTube channel.

If you’re obsessed with London, visiting London or living in London, you will want to add this to your Pinterest board for future reference.

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This page is part of a series of resources for those new to Sunny in London and is updated regularly. Other pages include:

Best Things to Do in London – Unique & Seasonal

Best Things to Do in London – Foodie Fun

Best Things to Do in London – Neighborhoods

Best Things to Do in London – Attractions

  • How to Visit London: 9 Attractions in 2 Days
  • ArcelorMittal Orbit Slide

Best Things to Do in London – What You Can’t Do

Unfortunately, for the next few years you will not be able to photograph the Elizabeth Tower, AKA ‘Big Ben’ due to maintenance. It is also only scheduled to chime two dates a year.

Best Things to Do in London: What’s Next?

Please leave any questions you have about activities in the comments below. What do you think I should add to this list to help you plan a trip to London?

If you want to make sure not to miss any future additions, subscribe to the weekly email. You’ll immediately get the ‘Local’s Pocket Restaurant Guide to London.’ It’s the ultimate free travel accessory for your London trip. The Guide has top recommended restaurants from a local, organised by neighbourhood. With it you can easily find a place to eat when you’re on a London street. Downloading the file to your phone means skipping Wi-fi and finding a fab foodie place- fast!

Send me the Free Pocket Restaurant Guide

Major Differences in American and British Cultures

What’s so different across the pond? If you’re planning a trip or moving there, you need to know the major differences in American and British cultures.

For six years I have lived in London as an American food and travel blogger. Being married to a British man gives me a better opportunity to understand how British people perceive American culture.

Most of the time I can process the American and British cultural differences with success, but sometimes I make huge mistakes!

I have put together this collection of blog posts and videos for anyone new to Sunny in London who might want some tips before they visit London or move here. It also works for British people planning to visit the USA.

DISCLAIMER: Obviously I understand that there are regional differences among England, Wales and Scotland. There certainly are among Miami, New York City and Los Angeles. However, I have done my best to consider generalities and hope you find these useful.

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Major Differences in American and British Cultures: Life in the UK Test

Foremost, if you are trying to become a British citizen or receive an Indefinite Leave to Remain, you will need to pass your Life in the UK Test. It’s the ultimate challenge to see how much you know about British culture, history, law and politics.

I passed in February 2019! If you’d like advice about the process, watch this video.

To download my notes for the test (15+ pages of a Word document that you can edit and reshape in to note cards to study) read my Study Advice.

Major Differences in American and British Cultures: Word Play

Major Differences in American and British Cultures: Food

Major Differences in American and British Cultures: Every Day Life

More Resource Pages from Sunny in London:

Watch the Sunny News YouTube to see everything happening each week.

Subscribe to the Sunny News email to receive regularly updates about what’s hot in London. When you subscribe you’ll automatically receive the ‘Local’s Pocket Restaurant Guide to London’ which you can download to your phone.

Send me the Free Pocket Restaurant Guide

Florida Places to Visit for Sun and Fun

What are the best Florida places to visit for a long itinerary? The Sunshine State is huge! Most people just think of the theme park capital of the world, Orlando, for a Florida holiday but there are quite a few other options for travellers who also want to experience the Atlantic Ocean or Gulf of Mexico.

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If you just visit Orlando, you’ll see pools and hopefully sunshine in Orlando. (Keep reading for why I said- ‘hopefully’) But, it is in the area we call Central Florida and looking at a map you will see it’s not on either coast. So, if you want to sit in natural sand (not a theme park’s man-made version) the first thing you need to know is this will require extra time, a car and interest in seeing other Floridian cities.

Florida Places to Visit- Why You Need a Car

Unlike Europe, public transportation and train travel is not popular in the US. The land is flat and most of what’s not near a coastline is swamp land in Florida. Unless you want to see gators, snakes and jaguars, you won’t need to spend much time too far inland. Mickey Mouse is the obvious exception to ‘wild life’. Know that Floridians gravitate to the water.

In fact, if you search ‘Alligator Alley’ you will find it is one of the few main highways that can take you from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf Coast.

When I was a child, Alligator Alley was what you envision in films. No gas stations and somewhere you don’t want to be stranded. The more popular highway by far is I-4.

The memes about Florida roads are comical because there is truth to them. Traffic on I-4 barely moves because anyone commuting to Orlando for work uses it. Tourists have to use it too. It also connects three cities that I feel would make a perfect trip to Florida. Renting a car is the only economical way to travel among them.

Florida Places to Visit- Orlando

Most people’s magical impressions of Florida are because they generally just spend time in Orlando, isolated at a theme park and hotel. While I have visited the Disney theme parks countless times, I am partial to Universal’s attractions. This is mostly because I worked there for a few years.

Let’s face it, if you’re a Harry Potter fan, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a dream come true at Islands of Adventure. And they just opened a new roller coaster! For those that have been to London’s Warner Bros Studio Tour, be sure to read my Harry Potter London vs Orlando comparison.

Harry Potter Orlando

Universal is definitely the more adult oriented theme park, if there really is such a thing. The rides are designed for thrill seekers and are some of the best in the world. The ‘mouse park’ down the street tends to have rides that you really just sit in little cars and travel through different sets and sound stages to see dancing dolls and other mechanical puppets.

Ahhh, I don’t seem very impartial here, do I?

Either way, these Universal and Disney with their parks and night life venues like CityWalk could keep you busy 24 hours a day.

However, Orlando offers excellent shopping opportunities too. The Mall at Millenia is exquisite. It’s high end shops like Kate Spade New York, Neiman Marcus and Prada could be appealing to British tourists because I generally find items are cheaper in the US. This is especially true when the dollar is low against the pound. Orlando’s International Premium Outlets will give you a great chance to score cool deals too.

And if it is basketball season, catching an Orlando Magic basketball game would be a big win. But you must book those tickets early!

Florida Places to Visit- St Pete/Clearwater

The Gulf Coast of Florida doesn’t get the international fame it deserves. But the Tampa/St Pete/Clearwater area is pristine and trendy. You’ll find many American restaurant chains launch in this area. It also has gorgeous golf courses.

Sunken Gardens would be Florida’s equivalent to London’s Kew Gardens, with an obvious tropical vibe. And of course, with so much access to water and sea life, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium or organised boat tours could be appealing to you too.

St Petersburg also offers something for art lovers to do, and that is visiting Dali Museum.

Florida Places to Visit- Daytona Beach

Of course, this Florida girl has to make a plug for her hometown for anyone who has time for a multi centre Florida holiday when planning places to visit in Florida.

Daytona Beach is best known for its flat, hard packed sand on which stock cars started racing. This beach car racing lead to the development of Nascar and made Daytona an iconic holiday destination for any race aficionado.

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If you want a beach that is wide and spacious, go to my hometown. The most relaxing locations to be are Daytona Beach Shores and New Smyrna Beach. With a car, you could visit the lighthouse in Ponce Inlet. And, obviously race fans would want to see the track at the International Speedway and maybe even take a tour or ride in a race car.

See for yourself how cool the Daytona Beach can be and learn where I suggest you eat in this short video I made while visiting Daytona Beach last summer. I shot it not far from the Daytona Shore Resort and Spa, one of my favourite places to go for their Sunday breakfast when I lived there. It’s also had the best reputation for a hotel in the Daytona Beach Shores area for decades.

Taking I-95 south to Cape Canaveral offers the chance to see Kennedy Space Center, which is a favourite of all Floridians. And just an hour north you will find St Augustine, which lays claim to being the oldest city in the U.S. Their Christmas Nights of Lights doesn’t quite rival Regent Street during the holidays, but it does prove that Florida has the holiday spirit. Even if it means throwing lights on palm trees and surfing Santa images.

Florida Places to Visit- Learn More

Columbia Road Flower Market Guide to Visiting

For a fab day out in London, you must visit the Columbia Road Flower Market. You would need to go on a Sunday, because that’s the only day it’s open. But, come rain or shine- it is open every Sunday. Yes, sunny friends, that even includes Easter Sunday!

I would like to say it is the perfect free day out in London. In fact, my Cool, Free Things to Do in London, I suggested it is. However, what I left out of the video is that I dare you to go without spending any money.

Why?

Do you think you could see all these beautiful, fresh flowers and resist purchasing at least one bouquet for yourself, your mum or a fab friend? I couldn’t.

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Rarely do we have fresh flowers in our house. In fact, I am a self-confessed plant killer. No joke. Even the extra warmth of the Christmas spirit, can’t keep a poinsettia alive for more than a week in the Sunny house.

That being said, I felt that spending £5 on a gorgeous batch of roses was more than fair.

Columbia Road Flower Market- The Basics

Columbia Road is composed of sixty independent shops. There are small art galleries, cup cake shops, vintage clothes stores, English and Italian delis, garden and antique shops. You can even get plastered…

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And don’t worry, boys. Mr Sunny found comfort in a pub he recommended as his pub of the week in our weekly newsletter. After Mr Sunny bravely made two passes through tight crowds, I thought it would be nice to thank him with a beer (because he was driving). He felt The Royal Oak, right on the corner of where the market begins, was a fantastic traditional pub.

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The Columbia Road Flower Market is in the East End of London, sitting on the edge of the city with Shoreditch to the west and Brick Lane and Spitafields nearby. Foodie friends, you know that means that while you are surrounded with flowers, you also are near some popular food destinations in London.

And if you’re looking for fab places to eat, keep reading so you know how to get our free, downloadable pocket guide to London restaurants.

The market has had several names over the centuries. The Victorian seen there today began in the 1860’s. Initially it was a Saturday trading market and then the flower market evolved. In the 1970’s the area went in to decline. However, locals fought to save the market. In the 1980’s the Columbia Road Flower Market began to have an international reputation.

Columbia Road Flower Market- What You MUST Know

For nearly a year, I have wanted Mr Sunny to drive me to Columbia Road Flower Market on a Sunday. On one Sunday, I had gotten ready early with the intent to go myself. However, I realised that if I took the Underground to the Columbia Road Flower Market alone, I would not be able to get a nice bunch of flowers home easily. Then, there were many Sundays that we just didn’t wake up early enough.

Mr Sunny’s aunt advised us to be there early, if we did go. And she was absolutely right!

Finally, on a super sun Sunday in London, we made it to the Columbia Flower Market. After 10 minutes of trying to find a parking space, we arrived at the flower stalls. We found a sea of people moving in a pack through the narrow walking space in between the flower stalls.

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If you are serious about choosing foliage and flowers, arrive at 8am when the Columbia Road Flower Market begins. You will have an easier time of finding everything from bedding plants to 10 foot banana trees. I hear even when it closes around 3pm ‘ish’ that it is still packed with a crowd. 

My plan was to make one pass through, attempting to see prices and products to do some comparison shopping.

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It seemed clear that the chants of ‘Everythin’ a fiver’ that we heard throughout our travel by the stalls was fairly accurate. Flowers and plants here are cheap!

Generally, everything seemed to be offered at the same price. Based on this, we decided to choose our flowers at the end of the stalls on our way out.

The best advice you can receive for the Columbia Road Flower Market is, serious shopping needs to take place at the crack of dawn. Otherwise, just go for the experience.

You also don’t have to worry about only having cash. While there are cash machines nearby, most stalls can take cards.

Columbia Road Flower Market- Final Thoughts

I would love to see what the markets have around Christmas. If any readers have made the trip during the Winter holidays, please add your ideas about the experience.

Visiting the Columbia Road Flower Market isn’t something I would do once a month. If the flowers are only a few pounds cheaper than what I can get at our local shops in North London, it isn’t really practical to make the trek there just to grab a bouquet.

But, while sifting through the crowds, I overheard a couple rejoicing in the huge purchase of items they bought. The gentleman exclaimed, ‘We never could have received these prices elsewhere.’

If you’re only in London a short time and have a passion for all things floral, you might find Covent Garden Market more accessible. While it’s definitely more focussed on tourists, it is larger and more spacious.

Take a look…

A Complete Guide to Covent Garden London from a London Local includes restaurants, hotels, attractions, Christmas, things to do, pubs and street performers

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Best London Restaurant Guide for Foodies

London’s food scene can be quite intimidating if you don’t live here or know where to go. This London Restaurant Guide is for people who want to find fantastic food in London- FAST!

As a local foodie blogger, I have had the chance to attend countless London restaurant launches, to conduct formal restaurant reviews and to be a part of popular food experiences.

By subscribing to the Sunny in London weekly email, you immediately get the ‘Local’s Pocket Restaurant Guide to London.’ It’s the ultimate free travel accessory for your London trip. It has top recommended restaurants from a local, organised by neighbourhood.

With the pocket restaurant guide you can easily find a place to eat when you’re on a London street. Downloading the file to your phone means skipping Wi-fi and finding a fab foodie place- fast!

As part of the welcome, you will also get several other free downloads that will guide you through trip planning, plus a weekly edition of the hottest happenings in London.

Get the Free Pocket Restaurant Guide

The Guide features: (updated June 2019)

London Restaurant Guide- Best Views

When considering the best London views you will think of seeing the London Eye, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Tower and Elizabeth Tower (AKA ‘Big Ben’). However, Londoners know that Big Ben won’t be in sight until 2021 due to maintenance and restoration work. While you can’t see them all at once due to geographic location, some London restaurants offer stunning sights that include many.

  • Duck and Waffle- located on the 40th floor this London restaurant is an Instagram favourite. Food reviews are good, but the breathtaking views are better. It’s also open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 110 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AY; City
  • Aqua Shard- For a 360 degree view and an opportunity to go inside the Shard this is a posh place to eat. They don’t take booking requests for window tables, but claim all their tables and bar offer a beautiful view. Level 31, The Shard, 31 St Thomas St, SE1 9RY; London Bridge
  • Smiths of Smithfield– while it is only 4 floors, the rooftop view is a sneaky surprise. Visit No. 3 at ‘Smiths’ for high end dishes and a terrace that will be filled with Londoners on a sunny evening. 67-77 Charterhouse St, Farringdon, EC1M 6HJ
  • Savage Garden– ultra chic and youthful. You would never expect something this cool at the top of a DoubleTree by Hilton Tower. Put your heels on girls and bring a fully charged phone because the sights of the crowd and skyline are memories you will want to share forever! Floor 12, 7 Pepys St, EC3N 4AF; Tower Hill
  • Fenchurch Restaurant at Sky Garden- This location is my top recommendation for free things to do in London. Taking in the gorgeous views at Sky Garden while enjoying British contemporary food at this rooftop space on a sunny day is a must. Keep in mind, there is a smart/casual dress code so leave the tourist clothes and gear behind. Sky Garden Walk, EC3M 8AF; Tower Hill
  • Galvin at Windows- this Michelin star restaurant is in the heart of London’s swanky Mayfair and offers a feast of French fine dining. It’s on the 28th floor of London Hilton on Park Lane, so you can see stunning panoramic views over Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace. 22 Park Lane, W1K 1BE
  • Oxo Tower- see views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the London skyline. Their afternoon tea is quite popular. For a taste of all they offer, follow their Instagram. Barge House St, South Bank, SE1 9PH
  • The Swan at the Globe- Literally located next to the Globe, here you can enjoy views of the Thames and St Paul’s Cathedral. Mr Sunny and I have enjoyed cocktails here several times and think it would be a perfect location for pre and post theatre dining. 21 New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT; Bankside
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View on the terrace at Smith’s of Smithfield
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London Restaurant Guide- Afternoon Tea

  • Sketch London- while everyone claims this is one of the most ‘Instagrammable’ place for afternoon tea in London, I don’t see it because images generally seem to be with a yellowish-pink tint. Further, feedback suggests this 18th-century townhouse tea room has the coolest loo in London. I would love to know your thoughts if you have a chance to visit. 9 Conduit St, W1S 2XG; Mayfair
  • Town House at the Kensington– for London’s most iconic afternoon tea, this recently refurbished restaurant holds the title on some of the most sought after afternoon tea experiences in London. The famed ‘Tale as Old as Time’ Beauty and the Beast themed tea had people attempting bookings months ahead. However, I think their current offer ‘London Landmarks Afternoon Tea’ is far better. The quality, creativity and atmosphere doesn’t disappoint foodie fans, and I have visited on several occasions. 109-113 Queen’s Gate; SW7 5LP; South Kensington
  • Conrad London St James- on the two occasions I had afternoon tea in Emmeline’s Lounge, I was wildly impressed. They happened both to be festive themed, but the pastry chef was exquisite. For creativity, delicious food and a boat load of booze, this afternoon tea scores high. However, you might wish to consider the lounge seating arrangement to determine if it offers the best for what you seek in your experience. 22-28 Broadway, SW1H OBH; Westminster
  • Claridge’s- this 5-Star Luxury hotel in the heart of Mayfair offers a place to stay and afternoon tea that makes all travel and food bloggers swoon. For one of London’s best afternoon tea experiences, with a price tag that demands quality, this is one to book. Brook Street, W1K 4HR; Mayfair
  • Covent Garden Hotel- Firmdale Hotels offer the best value for the price of their afternoon tea. Brasserie Max in this hotel offers themed afternoon teas that feature top quality food that is fresh and fabulous. 10 Monmouth St, WC2H 9HB; Covent Garden
  • One Aldwych- the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory inspired afternoon tea is probably the toughest one to book in London. It’s several years old and has maintained high popularity because of this hotel’s superior approach to quality. I have been a guest there in several capacities (hotel stay, spa experience, cocktail menus, and dinners). If you are interested in this afternoon tea, book immediately. 1 Aldwych WC2B 4BZ; Covent Garden
  • Playboy Club London– this is the afternoon tea that Mr Sunny was happy to be my +1 and I am sure you understand why. To be fair, I thought it was fantastic. The bunnies serve Afternoon Tea with a Twist and it’s a quirky, classy experience that I recommend to any confident girl seeking a win-win foodie date experience in London. 14 Old Park Lane, W1K 1ND; Mayfair
  • Cutter and Squidge- rising to immediate popularity in London, this Harry Potter inspired afternoon tea offers more than just food. True wizard fans will love a chance to take a potions class while munching on food from one of the best bakeries in London. Don’t believe me? Visit their Instagram and see! 20 Brewer Street, W1F 0SJ; Soho
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London Restaurant Guide- Food Chains

You will find the restaurants below in quite a few places in London. While I have eaten at nearly all of them, they have not been featured on the Sunny in London blog in a formal capacity.

  • Sticks and Sushi- Japanese sushi restaurants; trendy, highly rated on TripAdvisor
  • Roka- award-winning Japanese dining and slightly more expensive than other chains I’ve listed here
  • Dishoom- Indian; fun, elegant and very popular with Londoners
  • Banana Tree- ‘Home of Indochinese Food’; one my favourite places to have a casual dinner with Mr Sunny; I always order the Pad Thai and have never been disappointed
  • Wagamamma- Asian food; picnic style seating, fast service where you order with a number from a very large menu; consistent quality across London and the UK
  • Pizza Express- offers a gluten free menu that is impressive; Mr Sunny and I have eaten at quite a few locations and always have excellent experiences
  • The Real Greek– fresh Mediterranean cuisine. it’s a frequent meeting place for friends and me; the Greek food is outstanding
  • Cote Brasserie- French Brasseries and Bistros; every time we pass one they are always buzzing with people. That’s always a good sign!
  • Le Pain Quotidien– Belgian owned and recommend for lunch; features simple, elegant food with a focus on organic ingredients; gluten free options are impressive
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View from an upstairs table at Le Pain Quotidien, Covent Garden

London Restaurant Guide- Pubs for Food

  • The Ship Tavern– inches from Holborn Underground Station but tricky to find; head upstairs for what Mr Sunny and I feel is the best gastropub food in London. 12 Gate Street, WC2A 3HP; Holborn
  • The Admiralty– shockingly good for what appears to be the most touristy location in London for a gastropub; 66 Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DS
  • Smith’s of Smithfield– located beside London’s famous Smithfield Market, this location has levels of food available. 67-77 Charterhouse St, EC1M 6HJ
  • Butchers Hook and Cleaver- lively, fun and also close to Smithfield Market; 60-63 West Smithfield, EC1 9DY
  • Porterhouse- best bangers and mash I have had in town and it could be the largest bar in London. 21-22 Maiden Lane, WC2E 7NA; Covent Garden
  • The Fire Station– wood-fired pizzas, adventurous burgers, beers, ales and cocktails. 150 Waterloo Road, SW1 8SB; Waterloo
  • Hung Drawn & Quartered- great place to stop for food after a visit to the Tower of London. 26-27 Great Tower Street, EC3R 5AQ; Tower Hill
  • The Flask- frequented by famous authors, playwrights and rockstars. Several live within very close proximity so there is a chance you could bump in to one, but it’s outside of Central London. 77 Highgate West Hill, N6 6BU; Highgate
  • The Holly Bush– also in Zone 2, but if you’re around the Hampstead area, this is the local’s favourite pub. 22 Hollymount, NW3 6SG; Hampstead
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London Restaurant Guides- British Food

  • Hawksmoor Seven Dials- British steak and seafood restaurant which is highly regarded by Londoners and reserved for many special occasions. 11 Langley St, WC2H 9JG; Covent Garden
  • Bumpkin- local British brasseries with excellent Sunday roasts and seasonal menus; several locations
  • The Savoy- Mr Sunny and I enjoyed dinner at Kaspar’s at The Savoy, which features informal dining and possibly a beautiful view. Londoners all know that Simpson’s on the Strand is listed as the best roast dinner in the city. Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill is also popular. You could visit the American Bar, but that wouldn’t be very British now would it? 😉The Savoy Hotel, Strand, WC2R 0EZ; Covent Garden
  • Skylon- known for a fantastic view, it is located in the Royal Festival Hall. It has both formal and relaxed dining. Belvedere Road, Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX; Southbank
  • Butler’s Wharf at Chop House- in the shadow of Tower Bridge and has excellent views; features all-day menu of chophouse classics, steaks and nostalgic British recipes. 36e Shad Thames, SE1 2YE West End

London Restaurant Guides- Iconic Food Finds

  • Rules- very aristocratic and billed as the oldest restaurant in London; you must book ahead. 34-35 Maiden Lane, WC2E 7LB
  • Le Gavroche- Michelin Two Star dining from Michel Roux JR; luxe French food, impeccable service, ultra posh. 43 Upper Brook St, W1K 7QR; Mayfair
  • Dalloway Terrace- found in the Bloomsbury Hotel this is probably one of the most popular food experiences for Instagram in London. If it might bother you to have constant snaps around as you eat, this food find might not be for you. 16-22 Great Russell Street, WC1B 3NN; Bloomsbury
  • Roux at the Landau- gourmet French cuisine and one of London’s top restaurants. 1C Portland Place, W1B 1JA; Marylebone

London Restaurant Guide- Healthy Food

  • Wild Food Cafe- if you can find Neal’s Yard, you are in for a super healthy treat. As one of my favourite foodie Instagram accounts in London, Wild Food Cafe offers an explosion of creative, healthy food. 1st Floor, 14 Neal’s Yard, WC2H 9DP; Covent Garden
  • The Detox Kitchen- food free from wheat, dairy and refined sugar. It features few tables but has breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Ground Floor, Kingly Court, 10 Kingly Street, W1B 5PJ; Carnaby

London Restaurant Guides- International Food

  • Clos Maggiore- billed as London’s ‘most romantic restaurant’, this is an extremely popular place that offers French-influenced cuisine. Visit their Instagram for a little taste of what they have. 33 King Street, WC2 8JD; Covent Garden
  • Le Garrick– one of the best French meals I have had in London; family owned; 2 Garrick Street, WC2E 9AU; Covent Garden
  • Cocochan- Mr Sunny’s go to restaurant for his birthday and our favourite Pan-Asian place in London. 38-40 James Street, W1U 1EU; St Christopher’s Place
  • Chotto Matte- Japanese and Peruvian with high-quality Nikkei cuisine. It’s swanky, sleek and fun. 11-13 Frith Street, W1D 4RB; Soho
  • Gaylords- billed as the best Indian restaurant in London. It offers Mughlai and North Indian food. 79-81 Mortimer Street, W1W 7SJ; Soho

For more on food, see what we recommend are the best British foods to eat in England. And of course, leave your ideas in the comments. Can you think of anything else to add?

London in Spring- 10 Places to See

Have you seen London in Spring? I admit that Christmas in London is my favourite time of year. But, Spring is spectacular too. If I had to pick a really great time of year for someone to visit London it would be the month of May. The weather is crisp and a bit cool, so summer hasn’t fully settled in. This means there is plenty of fresh green grass and the sky can be crystal blue on many days.

Yes, it is true.

And if you are visiting London for the first time in Spring, you need to know one very important thing.

Not how to rhyme. That was purely accidental! 😉

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London in Spring- It’s About Time

As the clocks spring forward, the days get longer in London. And I mean longer! It’s actually a bit ridiculous how long it is daylight here. I feel like the sun rises at 5am and doesn’t set until 11:00pm. That’s not far from the truth. It’s a little hard to get sleep during the spring in London because the sun is nearly always up. And, as a girl who moved to London from Florida, I appreciate the sunshine!

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London in Spring- Places to See

With so many extra hours in a day, it’s a good thing there is a lot to do. And, the beauty of it is, generally kids are in school most of Spring so the crowds in London are a bit lighter.

I have created a bucket list of things to do this Spring in London for you and me too. My goal is to experience as many of these events that I haven’t already. If you want to see highlights of them, like Sunny in London on Instagram. My husband was born in London and he helped with the list. However, ‘Mr Sunny’ feels every week is ‘Beer Week’ so you might need to overlook that suggestion. Or… is there really a Beer Week during Spring in London? Ha!Ha! You will just have to watch the video to see.

One event that isn’t mentioned in the video is Pancake Day. I can’t say I ever heard of this happening in America. People in London get really creative with the Tuesday that is 47 days before Easter. You might celebrate it as Mardi Gras. Here it is called Shrove Tuesday. Also, you need to picture crepes if you’re American. They generally refer to them as ‘pancakes’ in the UK. The festivities are quite entertaining and worth participating in if you have some time to spare on your trip.

If you’re from here or are an American expat like me living in London, please leave your ideas and comments about your favourite things to do for Spring in London below or on the video.

Subscribe to the Sunny News YouTube channel for regular advice for things to do and what you need to know about London. This includes safety tips, pub advice, an afternoon tea etiquette guide and a shopping guide. The blog also has a Guide for Americans Visiting London which is a collection of the top experiences I recommend. You’ll definitely want to bookmark it and visit the Pinterest boards created to help trip planning too.

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THE ESSENTIAL FIRST TIME GUIDE TO

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HARRY POTTER

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YOUTUBE

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